If you’re looking for the Connections answer for Thursday, January 8, 2026, read on—I’ll share some clues, tips, and strategies, and finally the solutions to all four categories.

Looking for a hint for today's NYT Connections? Read on for hints and the answer to today's Connections game on Friday, 2nd January 2026.

1. GROUP: BAND, CREW, PACK, TEAM 2. PLUNGE: CRASH, CRATER, DROP, TANK 3. PARTS OF A SINK: BASIN, DRAIN, FAUCET, STOPPER 4. EQUESTRIAN GEAR: BIT, CROP, HALTER, SADDLE This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 11, 2026, where it first appeared in the Life section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.